Created by Kaylie Kreatrix and Graham Cuthbertson
Produced by Key Creations, Ottawa, ON
Review by Audrey Pridham
45 mins / G / Play, Puppetry, Circus
Packed with vivid imagination, whimsy, and impressive circus acts, Kitsune takes audiences through the different layers of Japanese folklore in a delightful performance that’s sure to leave a smile on your face.
The solo act show featuring puppetry, dance, object manipulation, and acrobatics explores the intriguing nature of the “Kitsune,” a shape-shifting fox “yokai” that can be mischievous but also wise.
Show producer and performer Kaylie Kreatrix transports audience members to a world of Zen and tranquility, but also with a hint of spontaneity, as she teaches us about the Kitsune’s importance to Japanese culture and how everything is connected to one another. When their beloved Kitsune’s magical Hoshi no tama goes missing, Kreatrix goes on a journey to find it while also uncovering stories of her culture.
Kreatrix in Kitsune. Photo by Melody Maloney.
Kreatrix’s passion for sharing stories about her heritage shines bright in this production, as you are immediately drawn to her playful nature with storytelling. The show alternates between monologues where Kreatrix addresses the audience, dialogue between Kreatrix and the Kitsune puppet, and musical numbers showcasing Kreatrix’s unique puppetry and circus acts. Audience members also have an opportunity to interact during the show, such as pretending to throw Kitsune’s Hoshi no tama in a game of catch.
There is also wonderful incorporation of lighting for certain spectacles and scene setting, such as dramatic spotlights for Kreatrix’s dances and tricks, and softer, wave-like blue floor lighting to represent water.
Photo by Melanie Mathieu.
Some impressive feats include Kreatrix balancing a garden rake and spinning hula-hoops into different shapes, often accompanied by energetic drum beats or softer instrumentals with flutes and chimes. One of the show’s stand out moments was when Kreatrix unveiled a large, light-up traditional dragon puppet and waved it across the stage as its body and tail elegantly floated behind it. Each number is captivating through its use of colour, music, and emotion, leaving audiences with a magical experience.
Kitsune is an overall wholesome tale of learning to persevere while also embracing the title character’s whimsical nature into its storytelling. This family-friendly production is a great introduction for young and adult audiences alike to become more familiar with Japanese culture with some laughs and wonder along the way.
Kitsune is playing at La Nouvelle Scène, Studio A from June 12–22. Tickets are $14 plus service fees at the Fringe box office (3rd floor, Arts Court, 2 Daly Ave.), and at the three satellite box offices (LabO in the Ottawa Art Gallery, Fringe Courtyard, 67 Nicholas St and La Nouvelle Scène). Five and ten Show Passes are also available. Visit the Ottawa Fringe Festival’s website for the show’s schedule and check out their online schedule here.
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